Herbert C. Hanke

Herbert C. Hanke 93, formerly of Rib Mountain, died Monday, November 1, 2004 under the care of LeRoyer Hospice at WillowBrook Assisted Living, Birnamwood. He was born July 11, 1911 in the town of Cassel, son of the late Otto and Anne (Matthiae) Hanke. Herbert married Evangeline Kraft in 1933. She preceded him in death in 1955. He then married Della Schewe on March 20, 1956 in Wausau. She preceded him in death on August 26, 1991. Herbert had been a dairy farmer in the town of Cassel. Later he worked as a mason and a foreman at Burger Construction for over 22 years. Herbert was also employed with the Marathon County Park Department for 10 years and the Rib Mountain Greenhouse. He enjoyed playing the concertina at many weddings with the former Silver Rhythm Band. Herbert possessed a love of flowers and plants and that was reflected at his home in Rib Mountain. There he hand planted and cared for thousands of flowers and plants. People who would stop and look were always given tours of the meticulous flower gardens that Herbert took so much pride in. Survivors include his children, Carol (Bill) Easker, Birnamwood, Dean (Phyllis) Hanke, Fort Atkinson, seven grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, two sisters, Ethel Brandt, Wausau and Erna Blank, Grafton, along with many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents and wives, Herbert was preceded in death by two brothers, Walter and Harold Hanke. Funeral services will be 11:30 a.m. Thursday, November 4, 2004 at Zion Lutheran Church, Eland. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Wausau. Friends may call on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Avenue, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in Herbert's name. Online condolences at www.petersonkraemer.com Herbert's family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Linda Rastl and the caring staff at WillowBrook Assisted Living and RN Sarah Stoehr with LeRoyer Hospice for the wonderful care and compassion given to him during his stay.